200 pieces of stolen mail discovered in South Pasadena traffic stop

SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. (KABC) -- A woman originally stopped for speeding was arrested by South Pasadena police after authorities said they recovered 200 pieces of possibly stolen mail from the vehicle she was driving.

Officers observed a BMW they said was speeding more than 80 mph on the 110 Freeway, and conducted a traffic stop at about 2:30 a.m. Saturday.

After stopping the car, police said they discovered the driver, identified as 27-year-old Marisa Rae Delgado of Highland Park, had an outstanding warrant for grand theft auto. She was also driving on a suspended license.

"Because of the amount of evidence that was in the car, the officer had the vehicle towed back here to the station to do a more thorough inventory," South Pasadena Cpl. Mike Sanchez said.

During their investigation at the scene, authorities found over 200 pieces of mail they said weren't addressed to Delgado. Officers also recovered dozens of blank credit cards, a credit card embossing machine, multiple mailbox keys for apartment complexes, stolen driver's licenses and other items "used to commit thefts," South Pasadena police.

Delgado, who had been in trouble with identity theft and other crimes in the past, was subsequently arrested, authorities said.

Authorities said the woman denied any knowledge of the items in her car and that her boyfriend had rented it. Police believe other people may be involved in the thefts.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service was assisting in the investigation and was expected to take the lead on the case, authorities said.